Sebastian review – journalist turned sex-worker aims to turn side-hustle into art

Ruaridh Mollica is very good as Max, a freelance writer with a secret app life in prostitution, but Mikko Mäkelä’s film is not clear enough about his motivations Sex work as a window into human nature is a longstanding theme in cinema, from Kenji Mizoguchi’s Street of Shame to Chantal Akerman’s Jeanne Dielman, and onwards. It is intensified here by the fact that the protagonist Max (Ruaridh Mollica), who mines his side-hustle escort work for material, is also a writer. But this uneasy, self-regarding sophomore effort by Finnish-British director Mikko Mäkelä, never fully distancing itself from the narcissistic prism of artistic creation, only fleetingly makes contact with flesh-and-blood human truths. By day, Max is a freelance hotshot for London’s trendy Wall magazine; he has just bagged himself a sweet assignment to interview Bret Easton Ellis. By night he is “Sebastian”, a hot commodity on an app called DreamyGuys. Typically servicing the older gentleman, he turns his experiences...

Bhumi Pednekar to be honoured with Disruptor Award at IFFM 2023; says, "I strive to live a life of impact"

Actress Bhumi Pednekar will be conferred with the prestigious Disruptor Award at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2023. In her career, she has etched a strong position for herself as a powerhouse performer working on films with strong subjects that matter. In addition, this recognition will also be for her relentless commitment to addressing climate change and promoting sustainability. The award will be presented to the actor on the festival's opening day, August 11.

The 34-year-old actress has solidified her position as one of the most socially-aware actors in the industry, consistently leveraging her platform and influence to bring about positive change. As a staunch climate warrior, she has used her wide reach and power as an actor to amplify the importance of confronting climate change and the reality that we confront today.

As part of the recognition, Pednekar will be engaging in a special fireside chat with a live audience on sustainability, further cementing her role as a catalyst for change.

Speaking of this honour, Bhumi said, "I am so grateful for having been awarded as the Disruptor of the year by IFFM. This recognition means a lot to me. Through my work, through the films and roles I take up, the causes that I support and stand up for and for everything I do to champion climate conservation, this is exactly what I strive for - I strive to live a life of impact. I aim at changing society for the better, by championing representation of women in cinema and fighting for gender inclusivity, and working towards achieving environmental stability."

She further added, "This acknowledgement by IFFM strengthens my belief that I’m following the correct course and making progress in the right direction. I’m thrilled to celebrate the power of cinema and creative spirit with everyone present at IFFM this year. The film festival’s unwavering dedication to promoting Indian cinema globally and providing a platform for artists to showcase their work is truly commendable."

The Disruptor Award will be presented to Bhumi Pednekar by a dignitary from the Victorian government, highlighting the collaborative effort between the festival and the government in promoting impactful work in the entertainment industry.

Also Read: Karan Johar to be celebrated at Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2023 as he completes 25 years in the industry



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